Barometer

Right now LGBT Bern is on the turn. The Comeback Bar, a handsome, subterranean vaulted space steps away from the town hall, has for some years been the only permanent evidence of a gay scene with any history, and still provides sterling if sedate service to a clientele that’s typically over 50 – apart from three packed-to-bursting days over Carnival each February. But a new generation of regular nights has sprung up over the last few years which are both the hottest early-evening LGBT tickets in town and the most fun symptom of a renewed energy in the capital’s community. Leading the way is Frauenraum, a feminist collective that puts on a range of monthly and fortnightly events at Reitschule, an arts centre in a former riding school in suitably striking, 115-year-old, graffiti-gilded premises close to the university. Some are women-only, but the most joyous is Barometer, a mixed DJ-powered night every second Thursday of the month where the beats are quirky and creative and the vibe is alternative, unpretentious and welcoming. Look like gay Bern is back!